Goldenrod Salve
- Brianne Thomas
- Sep 11
- 5 min read
Goldenrod, often unfairly blamed for ragweed allergies, is a powerful medicinal plant with a long history of traditional use. Its anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and wound-healing properties make it an excellent ingredient for a homemade salve.
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Many gardens feature a mix of flowers and herbs, and while you might be aware that planting them alongside fruits and vegetables is a great strategy for companion planting, you may not know that many of these plants also possess medicinal qualities. If you’re interested in learning more about herbal medicine, you can find our recommended book list HERE. Making your own infused oils and salves is super easy. Let’s get started!
What Is Goldenrod?
Goldenrod is a native North American flowering plant, known for its striking yellow blooms that appear from late summer to early fall. Often confused with weeds, this plant has a rich history in traditional medicine, celebrated for its impressive healing properties. With its slender stalks and aromatic leaves, goldenrod is not only a summer herb but also a favorite among artists and indigenous communities who use it as a natural dye. The vibrant yellow hue it produces is perfect for coloring natural fibers, creating a lasting tribute to the brightness of sunshine.
What Are The Benefits of Goldenrod Salve
Muscle aches and pains: Goldenrod's anti-inflammatory properties help soothe sore muscles and joints.
Wounds and cuts: It promotes faster healing and reduces the risk of infection.
Skin irritations: Eczema, psoriasis, and other skin irritations can be calmed and soothed with goldenrod salve.
Bruises and sprains: Applying the salve to bruises and sprains can help reduce swelling and pain.
Dry, chapped skin: The moisturizing properties of coconut oil and beeswax help to hydrate and protect dry skin.
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When Does Goldenrod Bloom?
Goldenrod typically starts to bloom around mid-August and continues its vibrant display until the end of September, or even until the first frost in certain areas.
How and Where to Gather Goldenrod
Ideally, you'll harvest your own goldenrod. It's best to harvest goldenrod when it's in full bloom, typically in late summer or early fall. You want to harvest the flowers, buds, and leaves just as the flowers are beginning to open, making sure to avoid any plants that have been affected by powdery mildew. Choose plants that are healthy and free from disease or pests. When foraging, it is very important to correctly identify goldenrod to ensure you are not harvesting a similar, but ineffective, plant. Ensure you are harvesting from an area free of pesticides and herbicides. If you aren't able to harvest it yourself, you can purchase dried goldenrod from reputable herbal suppliers.
How to Dry Goldenrod
I prefer to use my Excalibur Dehydrator to quickly dry my herbs and flowers. However, you can also air-dry the goldenrod by tying the ends together with twine and hanging them upside down in a cool, dry area that is well-ventilated. Air drying herbs can take a few days to a week or more. It is best to keep a close eye on the air-drying herbs to ensure there is no mold growth on them.
Helpful Tips for Making Goldenrod Salve
Use high-quality ingredients: Organic olive oil and beeswax ensure a pure and effective salve.
Herb Absorption. Dried herbs can absorb a lot of the oil. After 24 hours, check to ensure the ratio is more oil to goldenrod. Add more oil if needed.
Be patient during infusion: Allow ample time for the goldenrod to infuse into the oil for maximum potency.
Test for allergies: Before applying liberally, test a small amount of the salve on a discreet area of skin to check for any allergic reactions.
Other Oils That Can Be Used to Make Goldenrod Salve
Organic carrier oils such as Argan, Avocado, Hemp, Rosehip, or Sweet Almond can be used in place of organic olive oil.
Recommended Equipment for Making Goldenrod Salve
Dehydrator (Quicker than air-drying herbs, but not necessary)
Double boiler or heat-safe bowl and saucepan
Clean glass jars or tins for storage
Cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve
Spoon or spatula
How To Make A Double Boiler
To make a double boiler, you’ll need a saucepan and a shallow, heat-resistant mixing bowl. The bowl should sit snugly on top of the saucepan, with its outer edge resting against the upper rim to form a seal that retains steam. Ensure there are a few inches of space between the bottom of the saucepan and the bowl, allowing you to add water to the saucepan without it coming into contact with the bowl.
Want to Learn More About Medicinal Herbs? Check out our 5 Herbal Medicine Books You Need In A Homestead Library and our DIY Lemon Balm Oil
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Yield: Approximately 8 ounces
Ingredients
1 cup dried goldenrod flowers and leaves
¾ - 1 cup organic olive oil
¼ cup organic beeswax pellets
Directions
Combine 1 cup dried goldenrod and 1 cup olive oil in a pint-sized mason jar. Secure a lid and place the jar in a cool, dark cabinet for at least 2 weeks. The longer the infusion, the more potent the salve. I aim for at least 12 weeks.
Line a strainer with cheesecloth or use a fine-mesh sieve. Pour the infused oil through the strainer into a clean bowl, pressing down on the goldenrod to extract as much oil as possible.
Discard the spent herbs.
Add the infused oil and ¼ cup organic beeswax pellets to the double broiler and heat gently until the beeswax is completely melted, stirring occasionally to ensure even distribution.
Carefully pour the hot salve mixture into a clean half-pint mason jar or tins.
Allow the salve to cool completely at room temperature. It will solidify as it cools.
How to Store Goldenrod Salve
Once the salve has cooled completely, store in a cool, dark cabinet. Homemade goldenrod salve typically has a shelf life of 1-2 years.
How to Use Goldenrod Salve
Please note that Goldenrod Salve is intended for external use only.
Apply a thin layer of goldenrod salve to your lips for natural moisture.
Use a small amount on insect bites or stings to ease itching and reduce swelling.
Soothe minor skin irritations like rashes, sunburns, or chafed areas with the salve.
Massage into cuticles for added moisture and nourishment.
Rub into sore muscles or achy joints for temporary relief.
DISCLAIMER: This Goldenrod Salve recipe contains information about traditional herbal remedies for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbs, especially if pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have medical conditions. By making and using this Goldenrod Salve recipe, you acknowledge you are solely responsible for your health decisions.
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